The Tool Construction and Mould Making Honorary Medal has been awarded to industry pioneers and visionaries since the very first Moulding Expo, recognising those who are paving the way with their innovative approach. This year’s recipient during the ceremony on 7 May 2025 was Bob Williamson.
This year’s winner of the Tool Construction and Mould Making Honorary Medal has for years actively contributed to the international success of the tool-, pattern and mould-making industry. He is the long-standing President of the International Special Tooling and Machining Association (ISTMA), which represents the interests of the international tooling and machining industry, and is thus the first port of call for associations of related industries, as well as political institutions such as the European Commission.
Bob Williamson is well known for going above and beyond when it comes to his commitment to the industry, both at home and abroad. Always ready to lend an ear to market concerns, he actively supports how and where he can. As President of the ISTMA, he goes beyond what is expected of him in terms of representing member interests on both a national and international stage, contributing to greater visibility and recognition in many countries and markets for what is often an underestimated industry.
Williamson was clearly delighted to have been chosen as a medal recipient: “I am convinced that our industry is the proverbial glue that secures the success of the metalworking industry. It just so happens that our contribution is not always recognised. As President of the ISTMA, I have always seen it as my responsibility to change this. Without us, deindustrialisation looms - we thus represent a particularly important link in the process chain. I am honoured to have received this award and pledge to continue supporting this industry to the best of my ability.”
Bob Williamson completed a course of engineering studies at Rolls-Royce before relocating to South Africa in the early 70s. Around 20 years ago, Bob was part of a team of industry representatives who came together to form an organised voice for the tool and mould making industry, as well as industry in South Africa. Williamson is now General Secretary of the association that resulted from this.
Richard Pergler, organiser of the award, explains: “The honorary medal is in no way intended to celebrate a successful life’s work, but rather an opportunity to honour those who will continue to set an example for others active in this industry or who wish to be. The winners are, in particular, role models for young people who provide inspiration that goes beyond the confines of the industry.”
The medal is awarded by an independent jury, which includes representatives from the Association of German Tool and Mouldmakers (VDWF), Germany’s Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) and the WBA Tooling Academy, among others. The Tool Construction and Mould Making Honorary Medal 2025 was designed and manufactured by the WBA Tooling Academy.
